Do you know when or why to use a shortened URL? It's something that can be incredibly helpful for you provided you are aware of its benefits and limitations. This article discusses the usage of shortened URLs to help you make a decision on using them for your needs.

Steps

1

Understand what URL shortening means. URL shortening is a means by which the traditionally long URL to a website is truncated into a more manageable and shorter URL. It is typically used with pages that create longer URLs by dint of them being news stories, articles, explanatory pages, etc. that do not carry the simple front page domain name.

2

Understand how a shortened URL works. A shortened URL is made by using a service that shortens URLs (examples are provided below). The new URL basically redirects you to the actual URL.

3

Use shortened URLs when you gain a benefit from them. It is important to understand when you will benefit from using a shortened URL. Some of the uses for which the shortened URL is beneficial include:

Hiding a URL from spammers

Affiliated marketing links

Use on Twitter and other short messaging social networking sites

Need for less characters, a neater appearance on a webpage

For ease of remembering if you're exchanging information, making car stickers, etc.

Ease of use within emails, etc.

4

Select a URL shortener service that is reputable and that keeps a record of your shortened URLs either permanently or for a long period of time.